Little League Rules Myths

Many misunderstandings on the field are the result of "Everybody Knows That..."
rules myths. Listed below are a collection of common mis-beliefs about
Little League baseball rules. Each of these statements are false.
Clicking on each link will explain the correct ruling.

Interference is generally an act by an
offensive player who hinders a
defensive player. When a defensive player
hinders an offensive player, the correct call is
obstruction, not interference.

In addition, however, for obstruction to be called, the base runner must,
in fact, be hindered. For example, if the catcher is set up across the line
while the runner is still rounding third base, there is no obstruction,
because the catcher has not yet impeded the progress of the runner.
Only when the runner collides with the catcher, or is forced to alter his
or her path to avoid or get around the catcher, does obstruction occur.

Finally, once the catcher acquires the ball, he or she may legally
block the path of the base runner. Obstruction only applies to a
defensive player who is not in possession of the ball.